Inflation is making it more difficult than ever to run our municipalities.  Keeping all the line items "status quo" is not an option for leaders who want to deliver the best value to citizens for their tax dollars.
Tune in as Kelly Rudyk (It's Logical Consulting) explains Priority Based Budgeting, an innovative approach to developing the municipal budget. This approach expands the traditional focus on property taxes, fees and charges, integrating council's strategic vision as part of the process. The result: a budget that better reflects the priorities of the community and the ever-shifting needs of the municipal organization.

Could there be a better time to listen to our communities on how they want their politicians to behave? Especially when we’ve seen so many examples of just how bad things can go if we don’t set the right expectations.
In this episode, we’re joined by Mayor Cheryl Christian, Regional Municipality of West St. Paul, offering an inside perspective on Manitoba's mandatory codes of conduct for municipal council members. And, we get some great insight from Mayor Christian about how the new rules (and required training) are playing out in practice. Plus, some tips on how to set boundaries for those who might try to weaponize code complaints for political gain.

Local government reform is always a political hot potato - and the significant changes currently underway in New Brunswick are no exception. Join us for a deep dive on the process that is changing the face of communities across that province. Paul Lang, Executive Director, Kent Regional Services Commission gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how it's all happening – whether communities want it or not.

Local government guru George Cuff joins Ann and Susan in the Cafe! When things go off track in municipal governance (as they sometimes do), George is often called in to find out what's happened - and to advise on how to make it right. In this episode he shares tips on how to avoid getting "Cuffed”.  Tune in as George outlines the key strategies municipalities should use to avoid governance pitfalls and ensure they are meeting their mandate.

Are more women entering or leaving politics? Today in the café, Susan and Ann are chatting with Taneen Rudyk, President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM). Taneen talks about her ongoing role of councillor of the Town of Vegreville, Alberta and the challenges she has faced as a woman at the forefront of local government. Plus, a look to the future and what's ahead for FCM.